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Cardo has established itself as a leader in the realm of helmet communications and audio, particularly with its Packtalk Bold model released a few years back. Now, the company has revamped this successful product, introducing the Packtalk Edge, designed to align with current electronics trends. The Edge maintains the user-friendly interface of its predecessor while featuring upgraded Bluetooth technology, enhanced JBL audio, and numerous minor improvements to better suit your lifestyle. If you’re a frequent rider in search of an effective communication device or simply enjoy having music during your rides, the Packtalk Edge is a must-have.
Disclaimer: Cardo provided the Packtalk Edge Duo Pack for me to evaluate as an upgrade from my previous Packtalk Bold setup. I installed one unit on my old Shoei Neotec 2 helmet and another on my new Sedici Duale helmet.
Many of the positive attributes I highlighted regarding the Packtalk Bold continue to apply to the Edge. It delivers excellent sound quality, is straightforward to install, features easily accessible buttons even when wearing gloves, and the voice command functionality performs admirably—all of these aspects are strengths of both models. The Edge also boasts Bluetooth 5.2, providing a superior audio signal while using less battery power. The charging cable has been updated to USB-C for quicker charging and improved compatibility. My favorite feature, however, is the magnetic clip-in mechanism. The Bold’s attachment to the helmet mount could be a bit tricky—especially when wearing gloves—whereas the Edge easily clips into place and stays secure once installed.
The JBL audio quality is impressive, even at high speeds. The Edge reportedly can reach volumes up to 30 percent louder than the Bold, though I never encountered any volume issues. Perhaps my Ducati with aftermarket pipes will provide a different perspective. While I’m not an audiophile, a motorcycle helmet at highway speeds is hardly an ideal audio environment.
The installation process remains nearly identical to that of the Bold. For my helmets, I opted for stick-on mounts since I rarely ride without a Cardo device. Mounting the speakers in the helmets has become increasingly straightforward, as many helmets now feature pre-designed pockets for them, including my Sedici. The pockets in my Shoei were somewhat larger than the speakers, requiring a bit of velcro adjustment to keep them secure. However, they fit snugly in my Sedici and are unlikely to move.
Priced at around $389.95 (with Revzilla offering it for $359), the Packtalk Edge isn’t exactly cheap. Still, I recently spent nearly as much on a pair of Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless noise-canceling earbuds, underscoring the willingness of consumers to invest in quality audio experiences, even in niche applications. For those riding together, the Duo kit retails for $656.96, making it a convenient option for sharing effective communication on the road. This is particularly useful since most riders own multiple helmets, allowing you to keep a fully charged backup for longer trips, especially since the Packtalk Edge is rated for about 13 hours of usage.
If you plan to have two of these units at home, I recommend labeling them differently and renaming each in your phone’s Bluetooth settings for ease of use.
I engraved a subtle Roman numeral I and II on my new devices for differentiation, renaming them Packtalk 1 and Packtalk 2 in my phone. This simple step will save time in the long run and help me easily identify which unit is charged or depleted.
These devices prove to be extremely useful, especially for avid riders who prefer not to ride in silence. I frequently listen to lengthy playlists or podcasts while cruising for hours, which enhances the experience. While some motorcyclists avoid audio for safety reasons, the Packtalk Edge does not obstruct external sounds, allowing me to hear surrounding vehicles and other bikes effectively. This capability ensures I won’t be left bored during long stretches on the highway.
For those in the market for audio solutions, especially for enthusiasts who drive exceptionally loud vehicles such as Aston Martin Valkyries or Lotus Sevens, Cardo has also developed a new accessory known as Edgephones (shown above). This device allows the Packtalk to connect to a pair of over-ear headphones equipped with a microphone. While it’s primarily designed for rider-instructor communication, it could prove beneficial in any noisy environment, including vehicles or airplanes.
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